So. Dakota/Wyoming

Come join us for an immersive experience delving into the challenges and joys of North America's indigenous peoples within the broader context of Maryknoll's mission work with indigenous communities worldwide. These communities are rich in ancient traditions and culture, yet often marginalized in society. Nevertheless, they have invaluable teachings to share about nurturing life in all its forms. 

The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers are honored to support and stand alongside indigenous peoples  across the globe. Through close collaboration, we have witnessed these communities gain strength, embrace their spirituality and culture, combat poverty, and establish harmonious societies rooted in peace and social justice. 

Participants will: 

• learn about the history, culture and spirituality of the Lakota People

• hear the intergenerational stories of suffering and resilience from a people who had their land and culture ripped away from them

• gain firsthand insight into the trauma and injustices that have unfolded during the reservation era through genocide, relocation and poverty

• see signs of hope springing forth from the cultural revitalization that is happening on the reservations today

• appreciate the importance and prevalence of the culture and spirituality in Lakota communities, and how those traditional practices are kept alive today

• better understand how the experience of the Lakota People relates to and is connected with that of other indigenous groups around the world

We will visit:

• The Rosebud Lakota Sioux Reservation, as well as the Pine Ridge and Crow Creek Sioux Reservations

• The Native American Sundance Ceremony for a full day and familiarize ourselves with the ceremony, an indigenous religious tradition to reunite and reconnect with the earth and the spirits. 

• Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial

• Black Hills, including Crazy Horse Memorial and Devils Tower National Monument

(Itinerary is subject to adjustments.)

Using the see/judge/act methodology of the pastoral circle the group will bring what they learn and experience into daily community prayer and faith sharing.  Through theological reflection, we will discern how God is prompting us and our communities to better accompany, serve and advocate for indigenous peoples not only in the United States, but throughout the world.

Our trip will be facilitated by Dr. Gary Cheeseman, a professor of American Indian Education at the University of South Dakota (https://www.usd.edu/research-and-faculty/faculty-and-staff/gary-cheeseman), who will draw on his own experience as a Native American.  Suggested donation $1300 - $1500 (to be determined)

If you have any questions, contact Zahira Sandoval at zsandoval@maryknoll.org or 773-896-8025

Deadline to Apply: May 15, 2024

Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination required including booster(s).  

Trip includes fees, hotel and retreat center lodging, breakfasts and ground transportation (2K miles) during the immersion trip.  A donation of $1300 - $1500 (to be determined) is requested to cover these costs based on double occupancy (add $350 for single occupancy.) Partial scholarships may be available particularly for young adults and church ministers.

Participants are responsible for travel expenses to and from the Omaha Eppley International Airport (OMA) and for their own lunches and dinners at restaurants during the trip. 

Learn more about what to expect on a Maryknoll Immersion Trip at www.maryknoll.us/mission-trips